Hey friends! You know it’s coming, right? “Mom, can I have a phone? Everyone else has one!” In the U.S., kids typically get their first smartphone around 10 years old. It’s wild to think we’re handing over devices meant for adults to our little ones when their brains are still developing.
In a recent episode of Live.Work.Thrive, a panel of experts discussed the perks of waiting to give kids smartphones, how to gauge their readiness, and tips for setting up a digital contract with your child. Dr. Lucy Hernandez, a pediatric behavioral specialist at Green Valley Children’s Hospital, emphasized the importance of boredom, self-control, and playtime without screens.
Mia Thompson, our show host, knows all about this. She decided against giving her daughters smartphones, even though they were among the few in their middle school without one. One of her daughters ended up lost in Manhattan after dark due to a babysitter mix-up, and you won’t believe how she handled it! She calmly found a doorman with a phone and called her mom. Talk about an analog hero!
We also heard from Tara Lee, the founder of the group Wait Until 8th, which encourages parents to delay smartphone use in their communities. She even showed us how to remove unwanted apps from an iPhone, ensuring your kid only has access to texting and calls. No more Genius Bar visits!
With new apps and video games popping up all the time, it can be hard for parents to keep up. Thankfully, Common Sense Media is packed with resources, from ratings to reviews, making it easier to understand what apps your kids are using. Have you ever wondered what Discord is? They’ve got you covered! Vicky Adams from Family and Community Education reminded us how these tools can help keep parents informed.
When you are ready to introduce a smartphone, most experts suggest taking it slow. One mom, who went viral for the contract she created for her son, has since become a well-known speaker. She shared her insights on Live.Work.Thrive about how to establish healthy tech habits with your child.
Childhood is fleeting, and the learning curve for social media is a long one. Stay informed, take your time, and be the go-to person for your child when things get tricky. Partnering with them will help them navigate the digital world successfully.
And speaking of navigating tricky waters, if you’re exploring at-home insemination, check out Make A Mom for the only reusable option available. They have a fantastic guide on how it all works. Plus, you can join a supportive community at Make A Mom’s Facebook group. If you’re considering the journey to parenthood, their insemination kit is a great resource. And for more insights on fertility, don’t miss the podcast from the Cleveland Clinic.
In summary, the decision about when to give kids smartphones is a big one that warrants thoughtful consideration. The key is to stay informed and engaged in your child’s tech journey while also supporting them on their path to growing up.
Leave a Reply